We are definitely a better team with him in the side. A leader and more creative than Sandro or Henry. I have become a big fan. What a great block late in the game.
Nah, our midfield is good as it is. Joey likes the camera moments- a long pass/late ditch block. But he's not as solid as Sandro or Henry; not as good defensively. His pressing game often seems for show, and he doesn't get tight enough on his man when we're defending
Holy crap. Couldn't disagree with you more. If we want to win games we can't have Sandro and Henry playing together. I thought we looked a lot more dangerous with Barton on the pitch. I think you are being very unfair on him.
I agree Ciarra. We look better with Barton. I've been v impressed with Henry. A true pro. But his distribution isn't great. Him and Sandro are too similar. Barton gives us more creativity and better distribution. But what about Vargas. Him and Isla look top class.
I like him- don't get me wrong! He's a great option to have. But lets not be so eager to rip up a winning formula. He was okay for his 45 mins today, but no better than Sandro was for his 90 Vs Chelsea
Barton has to start IMO. Sandro and Henry have done well, but offer nothing creative. Don't care which one he replaces.
What have they done to warrant being dropped? They've anchored our midfield through the longest spell of decent performances we've had this season. Whilst Barton was in the team we were rubbish. ..I don't think much of you guys' man management skills!
I thought Barton was great today both defensively (bar stupid header back) and going forward gives us a bit more directness. What about his pass with outside of his boot, pure class (I couldn't see Fer doing that). Even if Sandro isn't injured Barton should start ahead of Sandro, our next three fixtures are all winnable.
Neither of them individually deserves to be dropped, but they are too similar. Barton gives us a better mix IMO.
Considering he has been out for a long time he looked very sharp...Don't think there is a selection problem as Sandro is injury prone...We need them both...
What we need is a bit more calm/creativity in attacking CM. Niko at least, and or Adel. But at the same time keeping our current intensity. Nobody deserves to be dropped, we just need to screw up a twisted gear.
All the midfield can pass first touch. Henry needs 3 touches and then either chips it or passes it sideways normally just behind the running player He slows it all down so others should start ahead of him
Henry should be first on the team sheet defensive wise. He's the cement without which we'd be on a hammering.
We looked a lot more creative with Barton on the pitch, he has much better distribution then either Sandro or Henry. For me it should be Barton and Henry starting on current form!
Great game but Barton nearly cost us He isn't as good as Henry Henry holds the entire shape together and does the simple things very well Said before watch him without the ball He has IMO been the platform that allows us to play Barton played two good passes credit him for that but he leaves big gaps at times He played well but I prefer Henry as the foundation Vargas was outstanding again
Looked good and not at all like a player returning from injury. Going to need him like him or not. The key to me seems to be the ever calm influence of Henry, Joey covered the left side of middle when he came on and Henry staying put looked a clever move. Good return, the block was pure Joey.